When transporting large quantities of goods worldwide, shipping containers are essential for global trade. The most commonly used containers are dry vans because of their versatility. But there are many other types of shipping containers, each designed to fit each of their specific qualities with the weight of the cargo. This guide explains the various shipping container sizes and types to help you choose the right one for your storage needs.
Dry Van Shipping Containers
Dry Van (DV) containers, the most popular type for shipping regular items, are completely closed to keep goods safe while on transport. They usually measure 20 or 40 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 8.5 feet high. Yet, there are different sizes available to meet various requirements.
These containers are built strong enough to handle tough weather and rough movement, whether traveling by sea, road, or train. Because of their flexibility and durability, shippers all over the world prefer to choose this type. In addition to this, dry van containers also need special approval and CSC plates to meet global standards.
Different Dry Van Container Sizes and Dimensions
Manufacturers make shipping containers to a standard size so that they can easily move, pile up, and store them. Here is a list of detailed information about the common container sizes and dimensions:
- 10-Foot Container: These containers are small and versatile. They are great for places with minimal room but where you need safe, weatherproof storage. These uses include storing personal or business items, moving offices, serving as ticket booths, security huts, and more.
- 20-Foot Container: These containers are the most popular for shipping because of their small size. They’re great for moving different items without occupying too much room. They are great for small shipments that do not require the space of a 40-foot container.
- 40-Foot Container: These containers are larger and ideal for heavy shipments. People often refer to them as two TEUs because they are roughly double the size of the 20-foot containers.
- 40-Foot-High Cube: The 40-foot High Cube shipping container is taller than the standard 40-foot container. This makes it ideal for storing tall items or for stacking items higher.
- 45-Foot Container: The main job of 45-foot containers is to ship goods across countries. You can utilize all the available space without going over weight limits. People also use these containers to make modular homes, offices, workshops, and temporary stores. This offers a versatile and affordable option for different needs.
DRY VAN CONTAINERS | |||||
Container Dimensions | External | Internal | Door Size | Tare Weight | |
Width | Height | ||||
10-Foot Container | 10’(l) x 8’(w) x 8’6”(h) | 9’ 3”(l) x 7’ 8”(w) x 7’ 9”(h) |
|
7’ 5” | 2800lbs |
20-Foot Container | 20’ (l)x 8’(w) x 8’6” (h) | 19’ 3”(l) x 7’ 8”(w) x 7’ 9”(h) | 4,000 – 5,000 lbs | ||
40-Foot Container | 40’ (l) x 8’ (w) x 8’6” (h) | 39’ 5”(l) x 7’ 8”(w) x 7’ 9”(h) | 8,000 lbs | ||
40-Foot High Cube | 40’ (l) x 8’ (w) x 9’6” (h) (1ft taller) | 39’ 5”(l) x 7’ 8”(w) x 8’ 10”(h) | 8’6” | 9,000 lbs | |
45-Foot High Cube | 45’ x 8’ x 9’6” (1ft taller) | 44’ 5”(l) x 7’ 8”(w) x 8’ 10”(h) | 9,810 lbs | ||
Innovative Uses of Dry Van Containers
- Relief Aid Transportation: After major storms or earthquakes, organizations prepare boxes with food, clothes, and medicine. They load these boxes onto trucks and send them to the affected areas. The boxes are sturdy and can withstand harsh weather conditions. This ensures that the aid reaches the people in need.
- Art and Exhibit Transport: Museums and galleries use dry van containers to move valuable art and exhibits safely. These boxes are good because they close tightly and keep the right conditions inside. This helps protect fragile items during transport.
REFRIGERATED CONTAINERS
Refrigerated (Reefer) Containers: These containers are special shipping boxes with cooling systems to keep goods at the right temperature. You can adjust the temperature
of these containers depending on what the cargo needs. This process helps maintain food, medicine, and certain chemicals fresh during transportation.
REFRIGERATED CONTAINERS | ||||
Container Dimensions | External and Internal Dimensions | Door Size | Tare Weight | Capacity |
20-Foot Reefer Container | 19’10″(l) x 8′(w) x 8’6″(h) | 7’6.125″(w) x 7’5.125″ (h) | 6,305 lbs | 64,242 lbs |
40-Foot Reefer Container | 40′(l) x 8′(w) x 8’6″(h) | 7’6.125″(w) x 8’4.625″ (h) | 9,744 lbs | 65,212 lbs |
Innovative Uses of Reefer Containers
- Emergency Medical Storage: Cooled containers can be used in disaster-stricken areas or remote locations without hospitals. They can store medicines, vaccines, and other medical items that need refrigeration.
- Wine Cellars: Wine lovers or vineyards can turn cooled shipping containers into portable wine cellars. These containers can have shelves and systems to control the temperature, making them just like regular wine storage places.
Factors When Choosing the Right Container Sizes
When choosing a shipping container, consider the following factors:
1. Understanding Your Project Needs
The first step in picking a container is to know exactly what you need. Are you using it for a one-time move, long-term storage, or frequent shipping? Your needs and duration of use will impact the size of the container you choose.
2. Interior vs. Exterior Measurements
Also, it’s important to look at both the inside and outside sizes of containers. The exterior size will tell you if there’s enough room for the container where you want to put it. The interior size will make sure your things or cargo fit perfectly.
3. Regulatory Compliance
Make sure you know about any rules that could impact your choice of container, especially if you’re shipping internationally. Following these rules is important because the law requires it.
An important note is to ensure that your shipping container operations are safe and efficient. By sticking to the guidelines from groups like ISO shipping and DOT, you’re picking containers that match worldwide accepted methods. This helps goods move easily across countries and lowers the chance of accidents and hold-ups.
Conclusion
Each kind has a role in the worldwide supply chain, from small 10ft shipping dry containers to large 40ft shipping high cubes. Keep in mind, that choosing the right size of shipping containers helps maintain your items safe and can even save you money on shipping. With the correct container, your shipment will reach where it needs to go safely and quickly.
Lastly, look for simple guides and professional advice on picking the correct size for a shipping container. You can find many easy-to-understand resources online explaining everything you need to learn about choosing one.
On-Site Storage Solutions
With proper planning and understanding, shipping containers can provide efficient, secure, and adaptable solutions for various uses. Talking to experts can help you pick the right size and type for your specific needs. Our team at On-Site Storage Solutions will help you learn about the different storage container options we offer.
Providing not just products but a pathway to reimagining living and working environments. Check out our website or contact us at (888) 405-8772 to learn how we can help with your innovative space solutions.
